Bibliographic information
GuidelineConsolidated guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of postpartum haemorrhage
Year of Publication2025
Issuing InstitutionWorld Health Organization
Recommendation
Maintained
External aortic compression is recommended as a temporizing measure until appropriate care is available for the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage due to uterine atony after vaginal birth
Context specific recommendation
Only in specific contexts
Notes and Remarks
- External aortic compression is a non-invasive manoeuvre used to reduce blood flow to the uterus by applying firm downward pressure over the abdominal aorta, just above the umbilicus and slightly to the left of the midline.
- External aortic compression has long been recommended as a potential life-saving technique; mechanical compression of the aorta, if successful, slows down blood loss. The GDG placed a high value on this procedure as a temporizing measure in the treatment of PPH.
- The effectiveness of aortic compression can be assessed by a reduction in bleeding and diminished or absent femoral pulse. The GDG noted that the manoeuvre should be performed by trained personnel and monitored carefully.
- External aortic compression can be physically demanding to sustain and may cause maternal discomfort.
Also Featured In
This recommendation also appears in the following guidelines:
Originally Developed
Guideline
WHO recommendations for the prevention and treatment of postpartum haemorrhage
Year2012
InstitutionWorld Health Organization
Guideline
WHO recommendations on maternal health: guidelines approved by the WHO Guidelines Review Committee, second edition. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2025
Year2023
InstitutionWHO